It has been revealed that there may be no allocation of sports capital grants this year, despite a 40% increase in the budget.

It emerged at a review of estimates for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport that it may be next year before applications and allocations are made again.

An official from the Department suggested the move was to allow clubs who had previously succeeded in getting funding to actually draw down the money.

Minister Shane Ross said no decision had been made yet on this year’s allocations, but that he would take on board that hundreds of clubs and organisations depend on these funds every year.